Candida infection often occurs following an antibiotic treatment, since in addition to killing the bacteria in your disease, the drug also kills the bacteria that keep your vagina healthy. The good news is that most of the practices that help prevent candida infections under normal conditions can also protect you when you're taking antibiotics. Making some dietary changes, maintaining good hygiene, and wearing the right clothes are all factors that can help you fight the causes of this fungal infection.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Part 1: Diet Changes
Step 1. Try eating yogurt
This food is so well known for the prevention of yeast infections that many doctors advise their patients to stop by the supermarket to buy it before taking antibiotics. This is because yogurt contains lactobacillus acidophilus, a bacterium that lives in the vagina and keeps the bacterial flora balanced. This bacterium is weakened by antibiotics, while yogurt restores it by preventing the development of candida albicans.
- When you buy it, check the label to make sure there is lactobacillus acidophilus among its ingredients. Not all yogurt on the market contains it, although it is present in almost all brands. Both flavored and natural yogurts are good.
- For best results, eat one or two servings of yogurt each day when taking antibiotics. It does not hurt, however, to continue eating it even after the treatment, because antibiotics are only one of the culprits of fungal infections.
Step 2. Eat fermented foods
Yogurt may be the most common choice when it comes to replenishing healthy bacteria, but it's not the only one. Fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha and fermented tea, and others also contain probiotics, living organisms that our body needs to keep itself healthy and balanced, so that mushrooms don't grow out of control.
- Since probiotics also help regulate the digestive system, they are added in many commercial products that do not contain them naturally. Now you can easily find cheeses, fruit juices, cereals and probiotic-enriched cereal bars in grocery stores.
- Take supplements as an alternative. If you're not particularly interested in yogurt or sauerkraut, you can pick up a pack of probiotic supplements. These contain the same healthy bacteria as yogurt, but in pill form. Take the recommended dosage for the duration of the antibiotic treatment.
Step 3. Try garlic
It has antifungal properties that help destroy the yeast responsible for infections. Eating a lot of garlic while on antibiotic treatment could help keep the infection under control. Alternatively, you can take garlic supplements, which don't affect your breath.
Some women apply garlic directly into the vagina when they feel that an infection is starting. If you want to try this technique, wrap a peeled clove of garlic in a small piece of cheesecloth. Tie it up, leaving a string at the bottom. Insert it into the vagina with the cord on the outside, to facilitate its removal. Leave it for a few hours or overnight, then throw it away
Step 4. Take hydraste supplements
It is another natural remedy that has proven very useful in preventing fungal infections. Before taking this or any other herbal supplement, however, consult your doctor to make sure it is suitable for you while taking other medications.
Step 5. Limit your sugar intake
Raising sugar levels can cause the fungus to grow more. Avoid foods or drinks that are high in sugar. Choose fruit and raw honey if you want something sweet.
Step 6. Avoid fermented foods containing yeast
Some studies support the idea that alcoholic beverages, bread, and other yeast-based foods can lead to fungal infections. It doesn't hurt to limit the intake of these products, but it doesn't necessarily help with your problem.
Part 2 of 3: Part 2: Changing the Lifestyle
Step 1. Put on cotton underwear
Cotton is a breathable material that prevents moisture from accumulating on the skin. If you like satin and lace underwear, you will need to think about replacing it with cotton while you are being treated with antibiotics. If you have to wear elegant lingerie, make sure it has a cotton lining.
Step 2. Don't wear tight clothing
Too tight pants, pantyhose, underwear with elastic or materials that do not allow air to circulate in the vaginal area, trap moisture creating the ideal conditions for the growth of candida.
- Wear loose fitting clothing rather than tight jeans.
- When you can, put on a dress or skirt.
- Wear loose fitting garments when exercising instead of a tight suit.
Step 3. Use condoms when having sex
Sperm has a different pH than the internal one of the vagina, and having sex without a condom could alter its balance. If you are willing to change a few things while on antibiotics, you should also use a condom for a while.
Part 3 of 3: Part 3: Practice Good Hygiene
Step 1. Avoid douching
Even when you are not taking antibiotics, they can facilitate the growth of the infection. In addition, they usually contain chemicals that kill good bacteria and inflammation can occur more easily, also because douching alters the pH level in the vagina.
- Instead of douching, wash only with warm water.
- Don't use harsh soaps or body wash soaps.
Step 2. Avoid using feminine perfumes or sprays
Products with the addition of perfumes can cause irritation. Do not put perfumes and sprays on the vagina. If you absolutely must wear perfume, use a mild essential oil and water-based spray, like a couple of drops of lavender.
Step 3. Use unscented pads instead of tampons
Swabs could encourage more fungal growth. If you have your period while you are being treated with antibiotics, put on pads. The important thing is that they are fragrance-free, since a chemical-based perfume could irritate the vagina.
Step 4. Cleanse yourself after using the bathroom
Clean yourself in a front-to-back motion to avoid any transfer of bacteria from the anal area to the vagina, which could lead to infection. Make sure your vaginal area is always clean and dry.
Step 5. Use only white, unscented toilet paper
If the vagina comes into contact with dyes and perfumes it may be more prone to infections.
Warnings
- If you are taking any medications for high blood pressure or diabetes, consult your doctor for preventative measures against yeast infections. Many of these drugs can increase the risk.
- If symptoms of a fungal infection develop, consult a doctor to make sure that it really is this problem; in fact, other vaginal conditions may present the same symptoms.
